Antireflux Valve in Post Cholecystojeju-nostomy Cholangitis: An Animal Study

Background: One of the most important post-operation problems encountered with Hepaticojejunostomy (Kasai operation) in patients with biliary atresia is cholangitis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficiency of anti-reflux valve in decreasing the incidence of cholangitis after hepaticojejunostomy. Methods: Ten dogs were randomly divided into two groups of equal size. In group A Roux-en-Y cholecystojejunostomy was performer and in group B antireflux valve was also added. Three months later, liver biopsy was taken to evaluate histopatholic changes. Results: The incidence of cholangitis was significantly reduced in dogs in which anti-reflux valve procedure was performed. Conclusions: Anti-reflux valve procedure effectively decreased post-Roux-en-Y cholecystojejunostomy cholangitis in dogs. Therefore it is plausible and might be beneficial for patients being treated for biliary atresia.Iran J Med Sci 2006; 31(2): 91-93. Keywords ● Cholangitis ● Kasai operation ● antireflux valve ● Roux-en-Y cholecystojejunostomy